HearEase for Small Ears: Hearing Aids for Children in Uganda

In 2023 and 2024, a heartbreaking reality came to light: hundreds of children in Uganda’s Luwero District were struggling with hearing loss — most of them in silence. Many of these children are orphans or come from families too poor to afford hearing aids. Their hearing difficulties severely limit their ability to learn, communicate, and connect with others.

At SDC e. V., we couldn’t stand by. That’s why we launched HearEase for Small Ears — a life-changing project that aims to give children back their ability to hear, grow, and thrive.

We aim to provide 48 children aged 2 to 17 with custom-fitted hearing aids — giving them a new chance at communication, learning, and inclusion.

But we’re doing more than just fitting devices. We’re creating long-term impact by:

1. Offering professional audiological assessments for each child
2. Training teachers and parents to support hearing-impaired children
3. Providing follow-up care and adjustments to ensure lasting benefits
4. Promoting awareness and inclusion in the community

Each child receives a complete diagnostic evaluation, including:

1. Otoscopy
2. Tympanometry
3. Pure-tone audiometry (PTA)
4. Speech audiometry

Based on these results, we fit each child with tailored bilateral hearing aids. We focus on quality and longevity to ensure that the devices serve the children for years to come.

We also organize workshops for parents and teachers to ensure the children are supported in their everyday lives — at home, at school, and in the community. Regular follow-ups and maintenance ensure optimal performance of each device.